DHEA: A Pro-Hormone

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)

DHEA is one of the most abundant hormones in the body. It is made from cholesterol, and is considered a “pro-hormone”. This means that  the body can convert it to an estrogen, progesterone or testosterone. It can be found as a supplement and in skin care products.

Internally, DHEA helps to reduce oxidative processes from cholesterol,and increases enzymatic activity to protect the circulatory system, and helps to reduce stress and depression. DHEA also helps to increase collagen in the skin when it is converted to an estrogen. This results in healthier, thicker skin with improved integrity.

When used topically in some skincare products, DHEA is easily absorbed into the dermis. It acts as an anti-inflammatory as well an anti-oxidant to improve the appearance of skin. DHEA, like other hormones, is found in three sources: 1) natural ingredients from plants or synthetic (produced in labs); 2) hormone derivatives (extracts derived from plants or microbes); 3) prescription strength (from fungi, plants or synthetically produced). More skincare products are including natural ingredients today because the body can absorb and utilize molecules which are compatible to cell membrane chemistry and structure.